What is a method statement?
A document the contractor submits to the consultant before a specific activity starts, explaining the work steps, resources and controls; site work is approved on its basis. It differs from a risk assessment but refers to and builds on it.
The core sections
- Purpose and scope: the specific activity, its locations and limits in the project.
- References: approved drawings, specification clauses, approved samples and materials, and the applicable code.
- Responsibilities: who supervises, who executes and who inspects, from the project manager to the safety officer.
- Resources: labour and trades, plant and tools, materials and how they are stored.
- Work steps: the sequence from preparation to handover, in language a site supervisor understands.
- Safety: the main hazards and controls, required permits to work and protective equipment.
- Quality: inspection and acceptance points, the forms used and acceptance criteria.
- Environment and housekeeping: handling waste, dust and noise.
Why method statements get rejected
- Generic copied text that mentions neither the project nor its approved materials.
- Steps out of sequence or ignoring temporary works.
- No link to the risk assessment and permits to work.
- No inspection points or who signs them off.
Ready method statements to adapt
We prepared a pack of 19 method statements in editable Word for waterproofing, marble, stone cladding, curtain walls, ceilings, gas and solar water heaters, for 299 SAR, ready for your project data and references.
See also how to build an HSE management system.
Frequently asked questions
What is a method statement?
A document the contractor submits to the consultant before an activity starts, explaining the work steps, resources and safety and quality controls; site work is approved on its basis.
What is the difference between a method statement and a risk assessment?
The risk assessment identifies hazards and controls; the method statement explains how the work will be done step by step and refers to the risk assessment.
Are ready method statements available?
Yes, a pack of 19 editable Word method statements for 299 SAR, ready for your project data.
